Battery and method of manufacturing battery

ABSTRACT

A battery (2) comprising a pressure sensitive adhesive sheet (1) and an electrolyte solution, wherein: the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet is provided at a site in the battery in which there is a possibility of contact with the electrolyte solution; the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet comprises a base material (11) and a pressure sensitive adhesive layer (13) laminated at one side of the base material; and the pressure sensitive adhesive layer (13) is formed of a pressure sensitive adhesive composition comprising: a (meth)acrylic ester polymer having a main chain containing (meth)acrylic alkyl ester monomer units having a carbon number of an alkyl group of 6 or more and 20 or less, and carboxy group-containing monomer units, wherein the (meth)acrylic alkyl ester monomer units having a carbon number of an alkyl group of 6 or more and 20 or less contain 2-ethylhexyl (meth)acrylates and (meth)acrylic alkyl ester monomer units having a carbon number of an alkyl group of 10 or more and 20 or less.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.15/831,442 filed on Dec. 5, 2017, which is based on and claims priorityto Japanese Patent Application No. 2016-237875 filed on Dec. 7, 2016,the disclosures of which are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a pressure sensitive adhesive sheet forbatteries, a pressure sensitive adhesive composition for forming apressure sensitive adhesive layer of the pressure sensitive adhesivesheet for batteries, and a lithium-ion battery manufactured using them.

BACKGROUND ART

In some batteries, a strip-like laminate is housed therein in a state inwhich the laminate is wound up. The laminate is formed by laminating apositive electrode, a negative electrode, and a separator locatedbetween the positive and negative electrodes. The positive and negativeelectrodes are connected to respective electrode lead-out tabs ofconductors, which electrically connect the positive and negativeelectrodes respectively to a positive electrode terminal and a negativeelectrode terminal of the battery.

A pressure sensitive adhesive tape may be used as a stopper for theabove wound-up laminate and/or used for fixation of the electrodelead-out tabs to the electrodes. Patent Literature 1 discloses such apressure sensitive adhesive tape. The pressure sensitive adhesive tapecomprises a base material and a pressure sensitive adhesive layerprovided on one surface of the base material. Main agents of thepressure sensitive adhesive layer include a rubber, in particular, abutyl rubber.

PRIOR ART LITERATURE Patent Literature

[Patent Literature 1] JP2011-138632A

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Problems To Be Solved By the Invention

A pressure sensitive adhesive tape used inside a battery may be incontact with an electrolyte solution which fills the battery and mayalso be exposed to heat generated, such as during charge and dischargeof the battery. Particularly in recent years, development of compact andhigh performance batteries has been progressed, and the pressuresensitive adhesive tape used inside the batteries will be exposed tomore severe conditions.

To allow batteries to exhibit satisfactory performance, it is requiredfor the pressure sensitive adhesive tape to maintain a high adhesionproperty with an adherend even when exposed to such severe conditions asdescribed above. It is also required that the pressure sensitiveadhesive be less likely to dissolve into the electrolyte solution tonegatively affect the battery performance. Unfortunately, theconventional pressure sensitive adhesive tapes may not be able tosufficiently satisfy such requirements.

The present invention has been made in consideration of such actualcircumstances and an object of the present invention is to provide apressure sensitive adhesive composition, a pressure sensitive adhesivesheet for batteries, and a lithium-ion battery in which good adhesivestrength is exhibited to an adherend and the pressure sensitive adhesiveis less likely to dissolve into an electrolyte solution even when thepressure sensitive adhesive sheet is in contact with the electrolytesolution.

Means For Solving the Problems

To achieve the above object, first, the present invention provides apressure sensitive adhesive composition for forming a pressure sensitiveadhesive layer of a pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries, thepressure sensitive adhesive composition comprising: a (meth)acrylicester polymer containing a (meth)acrylic alkyl ester and a monomer asmonomer units that constitute the polymer, the (meth)acrylic alkyl esterhaving a carbon number of an alkyl group of 6 or more and 20 or less,the monomer having a carboxy group in a molecule (Invention 1).

In the above invention (Invention 1), the (meth)acrylic ester polymercontains, in particular, a (meth)acrylic alkyl ester having a carbonnumber of an alkyl group of 6 or more and 20 or less as a monomer unitthat constitutes the polymer, thereby to exhibit a good pressuresensitive adhesive property and excellent electrolyte solutionresistance due to the hydrophobic property. When a pressure sensitiveadhesive layer of a pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries isformed using the pressure sensitive adhesive composition according tothe above invention (Invention 1), therefore, cohesive failure of thepressure sensitive adhesive layer due to its swelling is suppressed,excellent adhesive strength to an adherend is exhibited, and thepressure sensitive adhesive is less likely to dissolve into anelectrolyte solution even in a case in which the pressure sensitiveadhesive sheet for batteries is in contact with the electrolytesolution.

In the above invention (Invention 1), the (meth)acrylic ester polymermay preferably contain a monomer having an alicyclic structure in amolecule as a monomer unit that constitutes the polymer (Invention 2).

The pressure sensitive adhesive composition according to the aboveinvention (Invention 1, 2) may preferably further comprise a metalchelate-based crosslinker (Invention 3).

Second, the present invention provides a pressure sensitive adhesivesheet for batteries, comprising: a base material; and a pressuresensitive adhesive layer laminated at one side of the base material, thepressure sensitive adhesive layer being formed of the above pressuresensitive adhesive composition (Invention 1 to 3) (Invention 4). As usedin the present description, the term “sheet” encompasses the concept ofa tape.

In the above invention (Invention 4), after a pressure sensitiveadhesive that constitutes the pressure sensitive adhesive layer isimmersed in a solvent of a nonaqueous electrolyte solution at 80° C. for72 hours, the pressure sensitive adhesive may preferably have a gelfraction of 70% or more and 100% or less (Invention 5).

In the above invention (Invention 4, 5), the base material maypreferably be a film formed of a polymer having a nitrogen-containingring structure at a main chain (Invention 6).

In the above invention (Invention 4 to 6), a surface of the basematerial at the pressure sensitive adhesive layer side may preferably beformed with a hard coat layer (Invention 7). As used in the presentdescription, the hard coat layer refers to a layer that is formed of aharder material than the base material, and does not mean a layer thatexists as the outermost layer of a film.

Third, the present invention provides a lithium-ion battery wherein twoor more conductors are fixed in a state in which the two or moreconductors are in contact with each other in the battery using the abovepressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries (Invention 4 to 7)(Invention 8).

Fourth, the present invention provides a battery comprising a pressuresensitive adhesive sheet, wherein: the pressure sensitive adhesive sheetis used at a site in the battery at which there is a possibility ofcontact with an electrolyte solution; the pressure sensitive adhesivesheet comprises a base material and a pressure sensitive adhesive layerlaminated at one side of the base material; and the pressure sensitiveadhesive layer is formed of a pressure sensitive adhesive compositioncomprising: a (meth)acrylic ester polymer containing a (meth)acrylicalkyl ester and a monomer as monomer units that constitute the polymer,the (meth)acrylic alkyl ester having a carbon number of an alkyl groupof 6 or more and 20 or less, the monomer having a carboxy group in amolecule.

Fifth, the present invention provides A method of manufacturing abattery, comprising: preparing a pressure sensitive adhesive sheetcomprising a base material and a pressure sensitive adhesive layerlaminated at one side of the base material; and fixing two or moreconductors in a state in which the two or more conductors are in contactwith each other in the battery using the pressure sensitive adhesivesheet, wherein the pressure sensitive adhesive layer is formed of apressure sensitive adhesive composition comprising: a (meth)acrylicester polymer containing a (meth)acrylic alkyl ester and a monomer asmonomer units that constitute the polymer, the (meth)acrylic alkyl esterhaving a carbon number of an alkyl group of 6 or more and 20 or less,the monomer having a carboxy group in a molecule.

Advantageous Effect of the Invention

According to the pressure sensitive adhesive composition, the pressuresensitive adhesive sheet for batteries, and the lithium-ion battery ofthe present invention, even when the pressure sensitive adhesive sheetfor batteries is in contact with an electrolyte solution, cohesivefailure of the pressure sensitive adhesive layer due to its swelling issuppressed, the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries exhibitsexcellent adhesive strength to an adherend, and the pressure sensitiveadhesive is less likely to dissolve into the electrolyte solution

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of a pressure sensitive adhesive sheetfor batteries according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a partially cross-sectional, exploded perspective view of alithium-ion battery according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a developed, perspective view of an electrode body of thelithium-ion battery according to an embodiment of the present invention.

EMBODIMENTS FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described.

Pressure Sensitive Adhesive Composition

The pressure sensitive adhesive composition according to an embodimentof the present invention is a pressure sensitive adhesive compositionfor forming a pressure sensitive adhesive layer of a pressure sensitiveadhesive sheet for batteries. The “pressure sensitive adhesive sheet forbatteries” in the present description is a pressure sensitive adhesivesheet used at a site at which there is a possibility of contact with anelectrolyte solution when manufacturing a battery, may preferably be apressure sensitive adhesive sheet used inside a battery, and may also bea pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for battery interior. The batterymay preferably be a nonaqueous battery. Accordingly, the electrolytesolution used in the battery may preferably be a nonaqueous electrolytesolution. The pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries in thepresent description may preferably be a pressure sensitive adhesivesheet that is attached to a site at which there is a possibility ofimmersion in an electrolyte solution inside a nonaqueous battery or asite at which there is a possibility of contact with an electrolytesolution. A lithium-ion battery may be particularly preferred as thenonaqueous battery.

The pressure sensitive adhesive composition according to the presentembodiment (which may be referred to as a “pressure sensitive adhesivecomposition P,” hereinafter) contains a (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A)and may preferably further contain a metal chelate-based crosslinker (B)and particularly preferably further contain a silane coupling agent (C).The (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) contains a (meth)acrylic alkyl esterhaving a carbon number of an alkyl group of 6 or more and 20 or less anda monomer having a carboxy group in the molecule (carboxygroup-containing monomer) as monomer units that constitute the polymer.As used in the present description, the (meth)acrylic ester refers toboth an acrylic ester and a methacrylic ester. The same applies to othersimilar terms. The term “polymer” encompasses the concept of a“copolymer.”

(1) Components (1-1) (Meth)Acrylic Ester Polymer (A)

The (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) contains a (meth)acrylic alkyl esterhaving a carbon number of an alkyl group of 6 to 20 and a monomer havinga carboxy group in the molecule (carboxy group-containing monomer) asmonomer units that constitute the polymer.

The above (meth)acrylic alkyl ester having a carbon number of an alkylgroup of 6 to 20 allows the obtained pressure sensitive adhesive toexhibit a good pressure sensitive adhesive property and exhibits ahydrophobic property due to the large carbon number of the alkyl group.The hydrophobic property refers to a property that the affinity to anelectrolyte solution (including nonaqueous electrolyte solution) is low.As such, the obtained pressure sensitive adhesive exhibits good adhesivestrength and is excellent in the electrolyte solution resistance due tothe above hydrophobic property. When a pressure sensitive adhesive layerof a pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries is formed using thepressure sensitive adhesive composition P which contains the(meth)acrylic ester polymer (A), therefore, cohesive failure of thepressure sensitive adhesive layer due to its swelling is suppressed andthe pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries exhibits excellentadhesive strength to an adherend even in a case in which the pressuresensitive adhesive sheet for batteries is in contact with an electrolytesolution (including a case of immersion). Moreover, the pressuresensitive adhesive which constitutes the pressure sensitive adhesivelayer is less likely to dissolve into an electrolyte solution and thepressure sensitive adhesive does not negatively affect the batteryperformance. These can suppress the erroneous operation, thermalrunaway, and short circuit of the battery due to the pressure sensitiveadhesive sheet for batteries.

In the (meth)acrylic alkyl ester having a carbon number of an alkylgroup of 6 to 20, the alkyl group may be in the form of a linear chainor may also be in the form of a branched chain. From the viewpoint ofthe hydrophobic property, the carbon number of the alkyl group has to be6 or more and may be preferably 7 or more and particularly preferably 8or more. From the viewpoint of the pressure sensitive adhesive property,the carbon number of the alkyl group has to be 20 or less and may bepreferably 18 or less, particularly preferably 15 or less and furtherpreferably 10 or less.

Examples of the (meth)acrylic alkyl ester having a carbon number of analkyl group of 6 to 20 include n-hexyl (meth) acrylate, 2-ethylhexyl(meth) acrylate, isooctyl (meth)acrylate, n-decyl (meth)acrylate,n-dodecyl (meth)acrylate, myristyl (meth)acrylate, palmityl(meth)acrylate, and stearyl (meth)acrylate. Among the above(meth)acrylic alkyl esters, 2-ethylhexyl (meth)acrylate, isooctyl(meth)acrylate, n-decyl (meth)acrylate, n-dodecyl acrylate, etc. may bepreferred and 2-ethylhexyl (meth)acrylate and isooctyl (meth)acrylatemay be particularly preferred from the viewpoints of the pressuresensitive adhesive property and the hydrophobic property. These may eachbe used alone and two or more types may also be used in combination.

The (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) may preferably contain 50 mass % ormore, more preferably contain 60 mass % or more, particularly preferablycontain 70 mass % or more, and further preferably contain 75 mass % ormore of the (meth)acrylic alkyl ester having a carbon number of an alkylgroup of 6 to 20 as a monomer unit that constitutes the polymer. Whenthe above (meth)acrylic alkyl ester is contained at 50 mass % or more,the (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) can exhibit a more excellentpressure sensitive adhesive property and electrolyte solutionresistance. From another aspect, the (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) maypreferably contain 99 mass % or less, more preferably contain 97 mass %or less, particularly preferably contain 90 mass % or less, and furtherpreferably 85 mass % or less of the (meth)acrylic alkyl ester having acarbon number of an alkyl group of 6 to 20 as a monomer unit thatconstitutes the polymer. When the content of the above (meth)acrylicalkyl ester is 99 mass% or less, an appropriate amount of other monomercomponents can be introduced into the (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A).

The carboxy group-containing monomer, which the (meth)acrylic esterpolymer (A) contains as a monomer unit that constitutes the polymer, hasan effect of improving the adhesive strength of the obtained pressuresensitive adhesive. When the pressure sensitive adhesive composition Pcontains the metal chelate-based crosslinker (B), which will bedescribed later, carboxy groups originated from the above carboxygroup-containing monomer react with the metal chelate-based crosslinker(B) during the crosslinking of the (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A),thereby to form a crosslinked structure that is a three-dimensionalnetwork structure. The pressure sensitive adhesive having thecrosslinked structure due to the reaction between the carboxy groups andthe metal chelate-based crosslinker (B) is highly resistant to anelectrolyte solution, in particular to a nonaqueous electrolytesolution, and is less likely to dissolve into the electrolyte solutioneven in contact therewith. The obtained pressure sensitive adhesive istherefore further less likely to dissolve into an electrolyte solutionin cooperation with the electrolyte solution resistance due to the above(meth)acrylic alkyl ester having a carbon number of an alkyl group of 6to 20.

Examples of the carboxy group-containing monomer include ethylenicallyunsaturated carboxylic acids such as acrylic acid, methacrylic acid,crotonic acid, maleic acid, itaconic acid, and citraconic acid. Amongthese, acrylic acid may be preferred. According to the acrylic acid, theabove effects may be more excellent. The above carboxy group-containingmonomers may each be used alone and two or more types may also be usedin combination.

The (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) may preferably contain 0.5 mass % ormore, particularly preferably contain 1 mass % or more, and furtherpreferably contain 3 mass % or more as the lower limit of the carboxygroup-containing monomer, as a monomer unit that constitutes thepolymer. From another aspect, the (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) maypreferably contain 30 mass % or less, particularly preferably contain 20mass % or less, and further preferably contain 10 mass % or less as theupper limit of the carboxy group-containing monomer, as a monomer unitthat constitutes the polymer. When the (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A)contains the above amount of the carboxy group- containing monomer as amonomer unit, the above effects may be more excellent in the obtainedpressure sensitive adhesive.

The (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) may preferably contain a monomerhaving an alicyclic structure in the molecule (alicyclicstructure-containing monomer), as a monomer unit that constitutes thepolymer. The alicyclic structure-containing monomer exhibits ahydrophobic property due to its bulkiness. The obtained pressuresensitive adhesive is therefore more excellent in the electrolytesolution resistance in cooperation with the hydrophobic property due tothe above (meth)acrylic alkyl ester having a carbon number of an alkylgroup of 6 to 20. Thus, even when the pressure sensitive adhesive sheetfor batteries is in contact with an electrolyte solution, cohesivefailure of the pressure sensitive adhesive layer due to its swelling ismore effectively suppressed and the pressure sensitive adhesive sheetfor batteries exhibits more excellent adhesive strength to an adherend.Moreover, the pressure sensitive adhesive which constitutes the pressuresensitive adhesive layer is further less likely to dissolve into theelectrolyte solution.

The carbon ring of the alicyclic structure in the alicyclicstructure-containing monomer may have a saturated structure or may alsohave an unsaturated bond as a part. The alicyclic structure may be amonocyclic alicyclic structure or may also be a polycyclic alicyclicstructure, such as bicyclic and tricyclic structures. From theviewpoints of the above hydrophobic property and the electrolytesolution resistance obtained thereby, the above alicyclic structure maypreferably be a polycyclic alicyclic structure (polycyclic structure).In consideration of compatibility between the (meth)acrylic esterpolymer (A) and other components, the above polycyclic structure mayparticularly preferably be bicyclic to tetracyclic. From the viewpointof effectively exhibiting the electrolyte solution resistance, thecarbon number of the alicyclic structure (the number of carbon atoms ina portion that forms the ring, and when a plurality of rings isindependently present, the total carbon number) may be preferably 5 ormore in general and particularly preferably 7 or more. The upper limitof the carbon number of the alicyclic structure is not particularlylimited, but may be preferably 15 or less and particularly preferably 10or less from the viewpoint of compatibility as in the above.

Examples of the alicyclic structure include those including a cyclohexylskeleton, dicyclopentadiene skeleton, adamantane skeleton, isobornylskeleton, cycloalkane skeleton (such as cycloheptane skeleton,cyclooctane skeleton, cyclononane skeleton, cyclodecane skeleton,cycloundecane skeleton, and cyclododecane skeleton), cycloalkeneskeleton (such as cycloheptene skeleton and cyclooctene skeleton),norbornene skeleton, norbornadiene skeleton, cubane skeleton, basketaneskeleton, housane skeleton, spiro skeleton, etc., among which thoseincluding a dicyclopentadiene skeleton (carbon number of alicyclicstructure: 10), adamantane skeleton (carbon number of alicyclicstructure: 10), or isobornyl skeleton (carbon number of alicyclicstructure: 7) may be preferred because they exhibit more excellentdurability. In particular, those including an isobornyl skeleton may bepreferred.

A (meth)acrylic ester monomer including the above skeleton may bepreferred as the above alicyclic structure-containing monomer. Specificexamples include cyclohexyl (meth)acrylate, dicyclopentanyl(meth)acrylate, adamantyl (meth)acrylate, isobornyl (meth)acrylate,dicyclopentenyl (meth)acrylate, and dicyclopentenyloxyethyl(meth)acrylate, among which dicyclopentanyl (meth)acrylate, adamantyl(meth)acrylate, or isobornyl (meth) acrylate may be preferred becausethey exhibit more excellent durability. In particular, isobornyl(meth)acrylate may be preferred. One type thereof may be used alone andtwo or more types may also be used in combination.

When the (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) contains a alicyclicstructure-containing monomer as a monomer that constitutes the polymer,the (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) may preferably contain 5 mass % ormore, particularly preferably contain 7.5 mass % or more, and furtherpreferably contain 10 mass % or more of the alicyclicstructure-containing monomer from the viewpoint of further enhancing thehydrophobic property. From the viewpoint of preventing deterioration ofthe electrolyte solution resistance due to an insufficient amount of the(meth)acrylic alkyl ester having a carbon number of an alkyl group of 6to 20, the (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) may preferably contain 35mass % or less, particularly preferably contain 30 mass % or less, andfurther preferably contain 20 mass % or less of the alicyclicstructure-containing monomer as a monomer unit that constitutes thepolymer. When the content of the alicyclic structure-containing monomerfalls within the above range, the above electrolyte solution resistanceis more excellent.

If desired, the (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) may contain othermonomers as monomer units that constitute the polymer. Examples of theother monomers include a monomer that contains a reactive functionalgroup (excluding a carboxy group) and a monomer that does not contain areactive functional group.

Examples of the monomer which contains a reactive functional groupinclude a monomer having a hydroxyl group in the molecule (hydroxylgroup-containing monomer) and a monomer having an amino group in themolecule (amino group-containing monomer).

Examples of the hydroxyl group-containing monomer include hydroxyalkyl(meth)acrylates such as 2-hydroxyethyl (meth)acrylate, 2-hydroxypropyl(meth)acrylate, 3-hydroxypropyl (meth)acrylate, 2-hydroxybutyl(meth)acrylate, 3-hydroxybutyl (meth)acrylate, and 4-hydroxybutyl(meth)acrylate. These may each be used alone and two or more types mayalso be used in combination.

Examples of the amino group-containing monomer include aminoethyl(meth)acrylate and n-butylaminoethyl (meth)acrylate. These may each beused alone and two or more types may also be used in combination.

In order not to inhibit the effects obtained by the crosslinkedstructure due to the reaction between the carboxy groups and the metalchelate-based crosslinker (B), it may be preferred to use only thepreviously-described carboxy group-containing monomer as the monomerwhich contains a reactive functional group.

Examples of the monomer which does not contain a reactive functionalgroup include (meth)acrylic alkyl esters having a carbon number of analkyl group of 1 to 4, such as methyl (meth)acrylate, ethyl(meth)acrylate, propyl (meth)acrylate and butyl (meth)acrylate,alkoxyalkyl (meth)acrylates such as methoxyethyl (meth)acrylate andethoxyethyl (meth)acrylate, (meth)acrylic esters having anon-crosslinkable tertiary amino group, such as N,N-dimethylaminoethyl(meth) acrylate, N,N-dimethylaminopropyl (meth)acrylate and(meth)acryloyl morpholine, (meth)acrylamide, dimethyl acrylamide, vinylacetate, and styrene. These may each be used alone and two or more typesmay also be used in combination.

The polymerization form of the (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) may be arandom copolymer and may also be a block copolymer.

The weight-average molecular weight of the (meth)acrylic ester polymer(A) may be preferably 50,000 or more, more preferably 100,000 or more,particularly preferably 200,000 or more, and further preferably 500,000or more as the lower limit. When the lower limit of the weight-averagemolecular weight of the (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) satisfies theabove, the obtained pressure sensitive adhesive can have more excellentresistance to dissolution into an electrolyte solution.

From another aspect, the weight-average molecular weight of the(meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) may be preferably 2,500,000 or less,more preferably 2,000,000 or less, particularly preferably 1,500,000 orless, and further preferably 1,200,000 or less as the upper limit. Whenthe upper limit of the weight-average molecular weight of the(meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) satisfies the above, the obtainedpressure sensitive adhesive can have more excellent adhesive strength.As used in the present description, the weight-average molecular weightrefers to a standard polystyrene equivalent value that is measured usinga gel permeation chromatography (GPC) method.

The glass-transition temperature (Tg) of the (meth)acrylic ester polymer(A) may be preferably lower than 20° C., particularly preferably lowerthan 0° C., and further preferably lower than −40° C. as the upperlimit. When the upper limit of the glass-transition temperature of the(meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) satisfies the above, the pressuresensitive adhesive can have high tack in an ordinary temperature and isless likely to delaminate when immersed in a electrolyte solution. Thelower limit of the glass-transition temperature (Tg) of the(meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) is not particularly limited, but fromthe viewpoint of improving the durability in an electrolyte solution,the lower limit may be preferably −70° C. or higher in general,particularly preferably −62.5° C. or higher, and further preferably −55°C. or higher. Here, the glass-transition temperature (Tg) of the(meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) is to be calculated using the FOXequation on the basis of the glass-transition temperature (Tg) of ahomopolymer of each polymer that constitutes the (meth)acrylic esterpolymer (A).

In the pressure sensitive adhesive composition P, one type of the(meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) may be used alone and two or more typesmay also be used in combination.

(1-2) Metal Chelate-Based Crosslinker (B)

The pressure sensitive adhesive composition P may preferably contain ametal chelate-based crosslinker (B). When the pressure sensitiveadhesive composition P contains the metal chelate-based crosslinker (B),a pressure sensitive adhesive can be obtained in which the (meth)acrylicester polymer (A) is crosslinked by the metal chelate-based crosslinker(B). A pressure sensitive adhesive having this crosslinked structure hashigh resistance to an electrolyte solution, in particular to anonaqueous electrolyte solution, and is less likely to dissolve into theelectrolyte solution in cooperation with the electrolyte solutionresistance due to the above (meth)acrylic alkyl ester having a carbonnumber of an alkyl of 6 to 20.

Examples of a compound that can be used as the metal chelate-basedcrosslinker (B) include metal chelate compounds in which the metal atomis aluminum, zirconium, titanium, zinc, iron, tin, or other appropriatemetal. Among these, an aluminum chelate compound may be particularlypreferred. The aluminum chelate compound particularly effectivelyexhibits the previously-described resistance to dissolution into anelectrolyte solution.

Examples of the aluminum chelate compound include diisopropoxyaluminummonooleylacetoacetate, monoisopropoxyaluminum bisoleylacetoacetate,monoisopropoxyaluminum monooleate monoethylacetoacetate,diisopropoxyaluminum monolaurylacetoacetate, diisopropoxyaluminummonostearylacetoacetate, diisopropoxyaluminummonoisostearylacetoacetate, monoisopropoxyaluminummono-N-lauroyl-β-alanate monolaurylacetoacetate, aluminumtris(acetylacetonate), monoacetylacetonate aluminumbis(isobutylacetoacetate) chelate, monoacetylacetonate aluminumbis(2-ethylhexylacetoacetate) chelate, monoacetylacetonate aluminumbis(dodecylacetoacetate) chelate, and monoacetylacetonate aluminumbis(oleylacetoacetate) chelate. Among these, the aluminumtris(acetylacetonate) may be preferred from the viewpoint of the aboveeffects. These may each be used alone and two or more types may also beused in combination.

Examples of other metal chelate compounds include titaniumtetrapropionate, titanium tetra-n-butyrate, titaniumtetra-2-ethylhexanoate, zirconium sec-butyrate, zirconiumdiethoxy-tert-butyrate, triethanolamine titanium dipropionate, ammoniumsalt of titanium lactate, and tetraoctyleneglycol titanate. These mayeach be used alone and two or more types may also be used incombination.

One type of the above metal chelate-based crosslinker (B) may be usedalone and two or more types may also be used in combination.

The content of the metal chelate-based crosslinker (B) in the pressuresensitive adhesive composition P according to the present embodiment maybe preferably 0.1 mass parts or more, more preferably 0.3 mass parts ormore, particularly preferably 0.5 mass parts or more, and furtherpreferably 1.2 mass parts or more as the lower limit to 100 mass partsof the (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A). From another aspect, the contentof the metal chelate-based crosslinker (B) may be preferably 5 massparts or less, particularly preferably 4 mass parts or less, and furtherpreferably 3 mass parts or less as the upper limit. When the content ofthe metal chelate-based crosslinker (B) falls within the above range,the previously-described effects can be more excellent.

(1-3) Silane Coupling Agent (C)

The pressure sensitive adhesive composition P may preferably furthercontain a silane coupling agent (C). When the pressure sensitiveadhesive composition P contains the silane coupling agent (C), thepressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries exhibits excellentpressure sensitive adhesive property to an adherend (in particular, to ametal member) even in a case in which the pressure sensitive adhesivesheet for batteries is in contact with an electrolyte solution(including a case of immersion). This can further improve the adhesivestrength and effectively suppress the delamination of the pressuresensitive adhesive sheet for batteries from an adherend because asynergistic action is exhibited with the pressure sensitive adhesiveproperty and electrolyte solution resistance due to the (meth)acrylicalkyl ester having a carbon number of an alkyl of 6 to 20 whichconstitutes the (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A). As a result, it ispossible to suppress deterioration of the battery performance due to thepressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries. Moreover, also when thesurface of the base material at the pressure sensitive adhesive layerside in the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries is formedwith a hard coat layer, the above pressure sensitive adhesive layer canhave a high adhesion property to the hard coat layer. When the pressuresensitive adhesive sheet for batteries is immersed in an electrolytesolvent, therefore, delamination and the like can be prevented fromoccurring at the interface between the hard coat layer and the pressuresensitive adhesive layer, and the adhesive strength after the immersionin the electrolyte solution can be higher. In addition, when a releasesheet is removed from the pressure sensitive adhesive layer, it ispossible also to suppress delamination of the pressure sensitiveadhesive layer from the hard coat layer due to transfer of the pressuresensitive adhesive layer to the release sheet.

Preferred examples of the silane coupling agent (C) include anorganosilicon compound that has at least one alkoxysilyl group in themolecule and is well compatible with the (meth)acrylic ester polymer(A).

Examples of such a silane coupling agent (C) include polymerizableunsaturated group-containing silicon compounds such asvinyltrimethoxysilane, vinyltriethoxysilane andmethacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane, silicon compounds having an epoxystructure, such as 3-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane and2-(3,4-epoxycyclohexyl)ethyltrimethoxysilane, mercapto group-containingsilicon compounds such as 3-mercaptopropyltrimethoxysilane,3-mercaptopropyltriethoxysilane and3-mercaptopropyldimethoxymethylsilane, amino group-containing siliconcompounds such as 3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane,N-(2-aminoethyl)-3-aminopropyltrimethoxysilane andN-(2-aminoethyl)-3-aminopropylmethyldimethoxysilane,3-chloropropyltrimethoxysilane, 3-isocyanatepropyltriethoxysilane, andcondensates of at least one of these and an alkyl group-containingsilicon compound such as methyltriethoxysilane, ethyltriethoxysilane,methyltrimethoxysilane and ethyltrimethoxysilane. Among these, thesilicon compound having an epoxy structure may be preferred and the3-glycidoxypropyltrimethoxysilane may be particularly preferred from theviewpoint of the above effects. These may each be used alone and two ormore types may also be used in combination.

The content of the silane coupling agent (C) in the pressure sensitiveadhesive composition P may be preferably 0.01 mass parts or more, morepreferably 0.05 mass parts or more, particularly preferably 0.1 massparts or more, and further preferably 0.4 mass parts or more to 100 massparts of the (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A). From another aspect, thecontent may be preferably 5 mass parts or less, more preferably 4 massparts or less, particularly preferably 3 mass parts or less, and furtherpreferably 1.5 mass parts or less. When the content of the silanecoupling agent (C) falls within the above range, the adhesive strengthafter immersion in an electrolyte solvent can be more excellent.

(1-4) Additives

If desired, the pressure sensitive adhesive composition P may containvarious additives, such as a tackifier, antioxidant, softening agent,and filler, which are commonly used in an acrylic-based pressuresensitive adhesive. The additives which constitute the pressuresensitive adhesive composition P are deemed not to include apolymerization solvent and a diluent solvent, which will be describedlater.

(2) Production of Pressure Sensitive Adhesive Composition

The pressure sensitive adhesive composition P can be produced throughproducing the (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) and, if necessary, addingthe metal chelate-based crosslinker (B), the silane coupling agent (C),additives, and the like to the obtained (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A).

The (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) can be produced by polymerizing amixture of the monomers which constitute the polymer using acommonly-used radical polymerization method. Polymerization of the(meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) can be carried out, such as by asolution polymerization method using a polymerization initiator, ifdesired. Examples of the polymerization solvent include ethyl acetate,n-butyl acetate, isobutyl acetate, toluene, acetone, hexane, and methylethyl ketone and two or more types thereof may also be used incombination.

Examples of the polymerization initiator include azo-based compounds andorganic peroxides and two or more types thereof may also be used incombination. Examples of the azo-based compounds include2,2′-azobisisobutyronitrile, 2,2′-azobis(2-methylbutyronitrile),1,1′-azobis(cyclohexane 1-carbonitrile),2,2′-azobis(2,4-dimethylvaleronitrile),2,2′-azobis(2,4-dimethyl-4-methoxyvaleronitrile), dimethyl2,2′-azobis(2-methylpropionate), 4,4′-azobis(4-cyanovaleric acid),2,2′-azobis(2-hydroxymethylpropionitrile), and2,2′-azobis[2-(2-imidazolin-2-yl)propane].

Examples of the organic peroxide include benzoyl peroxide, t-butylperbenzoate, cumene hydroperoxide, diisopropyl peroxydicarbonate,di-n-propyl peroxydicarbonate, di(2-ethoxyethyl)peroxydicarbonate,t-butyl peroxyneodecanoate, t-butyl peroxybivalate,(3,5,5-trimethylhexanoyl) peroxide, dipropionyl peroxide, and diacetylperoxide.

The weight-average molecular weight of the polymer to be obtained can beadjusted by compounding a chain transfer agent, such as2-mercaptoethanol, in the above polymerization step.

After the (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) is obtained, the pressuresensitive adhesive composition P may be obtained through adding, ifdesired, the metal chelate-based crosslinker (B), the silane couplingagent (C), additives and the like to the solution of the (meth)acrylicester polymer (A) and sufficiently mixing them.

For adjustment of a suitable viscosity for coating and/or adjustment ofa desired film thickness of the pressure sensitive adhesive layer, thepressure sensitive adhesive composition P may be appropriately dilutedwith a diluent solvent or the like in addition to thepreviously-described polymerization solvent to obtain a coating liquid,which will be described later. Examples of the diluent solvent includeethyl acetate, n-butyl acetate, isobutyl acetate, toluene, acetone,hexane, and methyl ethyl ketone and two or more types thereof may alsobe used in combination.

Pressure Sensitive Adhesive Sheet for Batteries

The pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries according to anembodiment of the present invention comprises a base material and apressure sensitive adhesive layer laminated at one side of the basematerial, and the pressure sensitive adhesive layer is formed of thepreviously-described pressure sensitive adhesive composition P. Thepressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries according to a preferredembodiment will be described below.

As illustrated in FIG. 1 , a pressure sensitive adhesive sheet forbatteries 1 according to the present embodiment may be constituted of abase material 11, a hard coat layer 12 provided at one side of the basematerial 11, a pressure sensitive adhesive layer 13 provided at a sideof the hard coat layer 12 opposite to the base material 11, and arelease sheet 14 provided at a side of the pressure sensitive adhesivelayer 13 opposite to the hard coat layer 12. The pressure sensitiveadhesive layer 13 may be formed of the previously-described pressuresensitive adhesive composition P. In the present invention, the hardcoat layer 12 and the release sheet 14 are not essential constitutionalelements and may be omitted.

In the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1 having thepressure sensitive adhesive layer 13 formed of the previously-describedpressure sensitive adhesive composition P, even when the pressuresensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1 is in contact with anelectrolyte solution (this situation includes a case of being immersedin the electrolyte solution), cohesive failure of the pressure sensitiveadhesive layer 13 due to its swelling is suppressed according to thegood pressure sensitive adhesive property and electrolyte solutionresistance of the (meth)acrylic alkyl ester having a carbon number of analkyl of 6 to 20 which constitutes the (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A),and the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1 exhibitsexcellent adhesive strength to an adherend. Moreover, the pressuresensitive adhesive which constitutes the pressure sensitive adhesivelayer 13 is less likely to dissolve into the electrolyte solution anddoes not negatively affect the battery performance. These can suppressthe erroneous operation, thermal runaway, and short circuit of thebattery due to the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1.

Furthermore, the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1according to the present embodiment is provided with the hard coat layer12 and the insulation can thereby be ensured to improve the safety ofthe battery even if the base material 11 and/or the pressure sensitiveadhesive layer 13 are carbonized.

1. Base Material

In the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1 according tothe present embodiment, the base material 11 may preferably have flameretardancy that satisfies the flame retardancy level V-0 according tothe UL 94 standard. Owing to such flame retardancy of the base material11, denaturation and deformation of the base material 11 can besuppressed even when the battery generates heat due to its ordinary use.Moreover, even if troubles occur in the battery and it generatesexcessive heat, ignition and/or burning of the base material 11 can besuppressed to prevent a serious accident.

The material of the substrate 11 can be appropriately selected from theviewpoints of flame retardancy, heat resistance, insulation properties,reactivity with an electrolyte solution, permeability to an electrolytesolution, and the like. In particular, it may be preferred to use aresin film as the base material 11. Examples of the resin film includefilms of polyesters such as polyethylene terephthalate, polybutyleneterephthalate and polyethylene naphthalate, polyolefin films such as apolyethylene film and polypropylene film, cellophane, a diacetylcellulose film, triacetyl cellulose film, acetyl cellulose butyratefilm, polyvinyl chloride film, polyvinylidene chloride film, polyvinylalcohol film, ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer film, polystyrene film,polycarbonate film, polymethylpentene film, polysulfone film, polyetherether ketone film, polyether sulfone film, polyether imide film,fluorine resin film, polyamide film, polyimide film, polyamideimidefilm, acrylic resin film, polyurethane resin film, norbornene-basedpolymer film, cyclic olefin-based polymer film, cyclic conjugateddiene-based polymer film, vinyl alicyclic hydrocarbon polymer film,other resin films, and laminated films thereof. In particular, from theviewpoint of exhibiting excellent flame retardancy and heat resistance,films of a polymer that contains nitrogen in its main chain (the filmmay contain other components than the polymer, here and hereinafter) maybe preferred, films of a polymer that has a nitrogen-containing ringstructure in the main chain may be particularly preferred, and films ofa polymer that has a nitrogen-containing ring structure and an aromaticring structure in the main chain may be further preferred. Specifically,for example, a polyimide film, polyetherimide film, or polyether etherketone film may be preferred, among which the polyimide film may bepreferred because it exhibits higher heat resistance.

The thickness of the base material 11 may be preferably 5 to 200 μm,particularly preferably 10 to 100 μm, and further preferably 15 to 40μm. When the thickness of the base material 11 is 5 μm or more, the basematerial 11 can have moderate rigidity and the occurrence of curl can beeffectively suppressed even if curing shrinkage occurs during theformation of the hard coat layer 12 on the base material 11. On theother hand, the thickness of the base material 11 being 200 μm or lessallows the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1 to havemoderate flexibility and, even when the pressure sensitive adhesivesheet for batteries 1 is attached to a surface having a heightdifference, such as when an electrode and an electrode lead-out tab arefixed to each other, the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries1 can well follow the height difference.

2. Hard Coat Layer (1) Physical Properties of Hard Coat Layer

In the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1 according tothe present embodiment, the hard coat layer 12 in a state of beingprovided on the base material 11 may preferably has a property that,when the hard coat layer 12 is rubbed at a load of 250 g/cm² using #0000steel wool to reciprocate it ten times within a length of 10 cm, noscratches occur. When the hard coat layer 12 is evaluated to have suchsteel wool resistance, permeation of the electrolyte solution throughthe hard coat layer 12 can be effectively blocked, and the escape of aninorganic filler due to swelling of the hard coat layer 12 can beeffectively suppressed.

(2) Composition of Hard Coat Layer

The hard coat layer 12 may preferably be formed of a composition thatcontains an organic component and an inorganic filler (this compositionmay be referred to as a “composition for hard coat layer,” hereinafter).In particular, the hard coat layer 12 may preferably be made of amaterial obtained by curing a composition that contains an active energyray-curable component and an inorganic filler.

(2-1) Active Energy Ray-Curable Component

The active energy ray-curable component is not particularly limited,provided that it can be cured by irradiation with active energy rays toexhibit desired hardness.

Specific examples of the active energy ray-curable component include apolyfunctional (meth)acrylate-based monomer, (meth)acrylate-basedprepolymer, and active energy ray-curable polymer, among which thepolyfunctional (meth)acrylate-based monomer and/or (meth)acrylate-basedprepolymer may be preferred. The polyfunctional (meth)acrylate-basedmonomer and the (meth)acrylate-based prepolymer may each be used aloneand both may also be used in combination. As used in the presentdescription, the (meth)acrylate refers to both an acrylate and amethacrylate. The same applies to other similar terms.

Examples of the polyfunctional (meth)acrylate-based monomer include1,4-butanediol di(meth)acrylate, 1,6-hexanediol di(meth)acrylate,neopentyl glycol di(meth)acrylate, polyethylene glycol di(meth)acrylate,hydroxypivalic acid neopentyl glycol di(meth)acrylate, dicyclopentanyldi(meth)acrylate, caprolactone-modified dicyclopentenyldi(meth)acrylate, ethylene oxide-modified phosphoric aciddi(meth)acrylate, allylated cyclohexyl di(meth)acrylate, isocyanuratedi(meth)acrylate, trimethylol propane tri(meth)acrylate,dipentaerythritol tri(meth)acrylate, propionic acid-modifieddipentaerythritol tri(meth)acrylate, pentaerythritol tri(meth)acrylate,propylene oxide-modified trimethylolpropane tri(meth)acrylate,tris(acryloxyethyl)isocyanurate, propionic acid-modifieddipentaerythritol penta(meth)acrylate, dipentaerythritolhexa(meth)acrylate, caprolactone-modified dipentaerythritolhexa(meth)acrylate, and other appropriate polyfunctional(meth)acrylates. These may each be used alone and two or more types mayalso be used in combination. The polyfunctional (meth)acrylate-basedmonomer is not particularly restricted, but its molecular weight maymore preferably be less than 1,000 from the viewpoint of preventingescape of the inorganic filler from the hard coat layer 12 under theimmersion in an electrolyte solution.

On the other hand, examples of the (meth)acrylate-based prepolymerinclude polyester acrylate-based, epoxy acrylate-based, urethaneacrylate-based, and polyol acrylate-based prepolymers. One type ofprepolymer may be used alone and two or more types may also be used incombination.

The glass-transition point after curing of the active energy ray-curablecomponent which constitutes the hard coat layer 12 of the presentembodiment may be preferably 130° C. or higher and more preferably 150°C. or higher, and an active energy ray-curable component of which theglass-transition point is not observed may be particularly preferred.When the glass-transition point of the active energy ray-curablecomponent satisfies the above, the hard coat layer 12 can have excellentheat resistance, and a battery that includes the pressure sensitiveadhesive sheet for batteries 1 provided with such a hard coat layer 12can have excellent performance and safety.

When two or more types of the active energy ray-curable components areused in the hard coat layer 12 of the present embodiment, it may bepreferred for them to have excellent compatibility with each other.

(2-2) Inorganic Filler

The composition for hard coat layer which constitutes the hard coatlayer 12 of the present embodiment may preferably contain an inorganicfiller. When containing an inorganic filler, the hard coat layer 12 ofthe present embodiment can have rigidity and it is thus possible toprevent breakage, such as tear and puncture, of the pressure sensitiveadhesive sheet for batteries 1 due to impact and the like under hightemperatures or immersion in an electrolyte solution.

Preferable examples of the inorganic filler include powders of silica,alumina, boehmite, talc, calcium carbonate, titanium oxide, iron oxide,silicon carbide, boron nitride, zirconium oxide and other appropriatematerials, spherical beads thereof, single crystal fibers, and glassfibers. These can be used alone and two or more types can also be usedin combination. Among these, silica, alumina, boehmite, titanium oxide,zirconium oxide and the like may be preferred, and silica, alumina andzirconium oxide may be preferred from the viewpoint of dispersibilityinto an active energy ray-curable component. These inorganic fillers canalso be used in the form of a sol dispersed in a dispersion medium.

It may also be preferred for the inorganic filler to besurface-modified. A reactive silica can be exemplified as such aninorganic filler.

As used in the present description, the “reactive silica” refers tosilica fine particles that are surface-modified with an organic compoundhaving an active energy ray-curable unsaturated group. The above silicafine particles (reactive silica) which are surface-modified with anorganic compound having an active energy ray-curable unsaturated groupmay ordinarily be obtained, for example, by a reaction between silanolgroups on the surfaces of silica fine particles having an averageparticle diameter of 1 to 200 nm and an active energy ray-curableunsaturated group-containing organic compound having reactive functionalgroups (such as isocyanate groups, epoxy groups, and carboxy groups)that can react with the silanol groups. Preferred examples of the aboveactive energy ray-curable unsaturated group include (meth)acryloyl groupand vinyl group.

Available examples of an organic-inorganic hybrid material (organosilicasol) that contains such an reactive silica and the previously-describedpolyfunctional (meth)acrylate-based monomer and/or (meth)acrylate-basedprepolymer include products of the trade name “OPSTAR Z7530,” “OPSTARZ7524,” “OPSTAR TU4086,” and “OPSTAR Z7537” (all available from JSRCorporation).

Other examples of preferred inorganic fillers include alumina ceramicnanoparticles, a silica sol in which silica fine particles havingsilanol groups exposed at the silica surface are suspended in acolloidal state in the dispersion medium, and an organosilica sol inwhich silanol groups on the silica surface are surface-treated with asilane coupling agent or the like.

The average particle diameter of the inorganic filler used in thepresent embodiment may be preferably 1 to 1,000 nm, particularlypreferably 10 to 500 nm, and further preferably 15 to 200 nm. When theaverage particle diameter of the inorganic filler is 1 nm or more, thehard coat layer 12 obtained by curing the composition for hard coatlayer can have higher rigidity. When the average particle diameter ofthe inorganic filler is 1,000 nm or less, the dispersibility of theinorganic filler in the composition for hard coat layer can be excellentand it is thus possible to effectively prevent the occurrence ofirregularities on the surface of the hard coat layer 12 opposite to thebase material 11 during the formation of the hard coat layer 12 on thebase material 11. Moreover, when the pressure sensitive adhesive layer13 is formed on that surface, significantly high smoothness can beobtained on the surface of the pressure sensitive adhesive layer 13opposite to the hard coat layer 12. This allows the pressure sensitiveadhesive layer 13 to exhibit an excellent adhesion property to anadherend. The average particle diameter of the inorganic filler is to bemeasured using a laser diffraction scattering-type particle diameterdistribution measuring apparatus.

The content of the inorganic filler in the hard coat layer 12 of thepresent embodiment may be preferably 0 to 90 mass % (90 mass % or less),more preferably 30 to 85 mass %, particularly preferably 40 to 80 mass%, and further preferably 45 to 70 mass % with respect to the hard coatlayer 12. When the inorganic filler is contained, the content being 30mass % or more allows the hard coat layer 12 to have higher rigidity.The content of the inorganic filler being 90 mass % or less enables easyfilm formation using the composition for hard coat layer.

(2-3) Other Components

The composition for forming the hard coat layer 12 of the presentembodiment may contain various additives in addition to theabove-described components. Examples of such additives include aphotopolymerization initiator, antioxidant, antistatic, silane couplingagent, antiaging agent, thermal polymerization inhibitor, colorant,surfactant, storage stabilizer, plasticizer, glidant, antifoam, andorganic-based filler.

When the hard coat layer 12 is formed using ultraviolet rays as theactive energy rays, it is preferred to use a photopolymerizationinitiator. The photopolymerization initiator is not particularlylimited, provided that it functions as a photopolymerization initiatorfor the active energy ray-curable component to be used. Examples of thephotopolymerization initiator include acylphosphine oxide compounds,benzoin compounds, acetophenone compounds, titanocene compounds,thioxanthone compounds, and peroxide compounds. Specific examplesinclude 1-hydroxycyclohexyl phenyl ketone,2-hydroxy-2-methyl-1-phenyl-propane-1-one,2,2-dimethoxy-1,2-diphenylethan-1-one, benzoin, benzoin methyl ether,benzoin ethyl ether, benzoin isopropyl ether, benzyl diphenyl sulfide,tetramethyl thiuram monosulfide, azobisisobutyronitrile, dibenzyl,diacetyl, and β-chloroanthraquinone. These may each be used alone andtwo or more types may also be used in combination.

The content of the above photopolymerization initiator in thecomposition for hard coat layer may be preferably 0.1 to 20 mass partsin general and particularly preferably 1 to 15 mass parts to 100 massparts of the active energy ray-curable component.

(3) Thickness of Hard Coat Layer

The thickness of the hard coat layer 12 may be preferably 0.1 to 10 μm,particularly preferably 0.5 to 7 μm, and further preferably 1 to 4 μm.When the thickness of the hard coat layer 12 is 0.1 μm or more,permeation of the electrolyte solution through the hard coat layer 12can be effectively blocked. On the other hand, the thickness of the hardcoat layer 12 being 10 μm or less allows the pressure sensitive adhesivesheet for batteries 1 to have moderate flexibility and, even when thepressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1 is attached to asurface having a height difference, such as when an electrode and anelectrode lead-out tab are fixed to each other, the pressure sensitiveadhesive sheet for batteries 1 can well follow the height difference.

3. Pressure Sensitive Adhesive Layer

The pressure sensitive adhesive layer 13 is formed of thepreviously-described pressure sensitive adhesive composition P. A methodof forming the pressure sensitive adhesive layer 13 will be describedlater.

(1) Physical Properties of Pressure Sensitive Adhesive/PressureSensitive Adhesive Layer

In the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1 according tothe present embodiment, after the pressure sensitive adhesive whichconstitutes the pressure sensitive adhesive layer 13 is immersed in asolvent of a nonaqueous electrolyte solution at 80° C. for 72 hours, thegel fraction of the pressure sensitive adhesive may be preferably 70% ormore, particularly preferably 80% or more, and further preferably 90% ormore as the lower limit. The lower limit of the above gel fractionsatisfying the above can suppress the amount of dissolution of thepressure sensitive adhesive when the pressure sensitive adhesive layer13 is in contact with an electrolyte solution. This can more effectivelysuppress the erroneous operation, thermal runaway, and short circuit ofthe battery in which the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries1 is used.

From another aspect, the upper limit of the above gel fraction may bepreferably 100% or less, particularly preferably 99% or less, andfurther preferably 98% or less. The upper limit of the gel fractionbeing 98% or less allows the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet forbatteries 1 to have moderate flexibility and, even when the pressuresensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1 is attached to a surface havinga height difference, such as when an electrode and an electrode lead-outtab are fixed to each other, the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet forbatteries 1 can well follow the height difference.

The solvent of a nonaqueous electrolyte solution as used herein may be aprepared liquid obtained by mixing ethylene carbonate and diethylcarbonate at a volume ratio of 1:1. A method of testing the gel fractionis as described in the exemplary test, which will be described later.

(2) Thickness of Pressure Sensitive Adhesive Layer

The thickness (a value measured in accordance with JIS K7130) of thepressure sensitive adhesive layer 13 may be preferably 1 to 50 μm,particularly preferably 3 to 15 μm, and further preferably 4 to 9 μm.When the thickness of the pressure sensitive adhesive layer 13 is 1 μmor more, the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1 canexhibit more excellent adhesive strength. When the thickness of thepressure sensitive adhesive layer 13 is 50 μm or less, the amount ofelectrolyte solution infiltrating into the pressure sensitive adhesivelayer 13 from its end parts can be effectively reduced.

4. Release Sheet

The release sheet 14 is to protect the pressure sensitive adhesive layeruntil the use of the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1and is removed when using the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet forbatteries 1. In the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1according to the present embodiment, the release sheet 14 may notnecessarily be required.

Examples of the release sheet 14 to be used include a polyethylene film,polypropylene film, polybutene film, polybutadiene film,polymethylpentene film, polyvinyl chloride film, vinyl chloridecopolymer film, polyethylene terephthalate film, polyethylenenaphthalate film, polybutylene terephthalate film, polyurethane film,ethylene-vinyl acetate film, ionomer resin film, ethylene-(meth)acrylicacid copolymer film, ethylene-(meth)acrylic ester copolymer film,polystyrene film, polycarbonate film, polyimide film, fluorine resinfilm, and liquid crystal polymer film. Crosslinked films thereof mayalso be used. A laminate film obtained by laminating a plurality of suchfilms may also be used.

It may be preferred to perform release treatment for the release surface(surface to be in contact with the pressure sensitive adhesive layer 13)of the release sheet 14. Examples of a release agent to be used for therelease treatment include alkyd-based, silicone-based, fluorine-based,unsaturated polyester-based, polyolefin-based, and wax-based releaseagents.

The thickness of the release sheet 14 is not particularly restricted,but may ordinarily be about 20 to 150 μm.

5. Physical Properties etc. of Pressure Sensitive Adhesive Sheet forBatteries

The adhesive strength (adhesive strength before immersion in electrolytesolvent) of the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1according to the present embodiment to an aluminum plate may bepreferably 0.5 N/25 mm or more, more preferably 0.75 N/25 mm or more,particularly preferably 1.0 N/25 mm or more, and further preferably 2.0N/25 mm or more as the lower limit. When the lower limit of the adhesivestrength of the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1 beforeimmersion in the electrolyte solvent satisfies the above, a trouble isless likely to occur that the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet forbatteries 1 delaminates from an adherend (in particular, a metal member)before the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1 comes intocontact with the electrolyte solution. The upper limit of the aboveadhesive strength before immersion in the electrolyte solvent is notparticularly limited, but may be preferably 50 N/25 mm or less ingeneral, more preferably 40 N/25 mm or less in general, particularlypreferably 30 N/25 mm or less, and further preferably 10 N/25 mm orless. As used in the present description, the adhesive strength refersbasically to a peel strength that is measured using a method of 180°peeling in accordance with JIS 20237:2009. Details of the method ofmeasurement are as described in the exemplary test, which will bedescribed later.

After the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1 according tothe present embodiment is attached to an aluminum plate and immersed ina solvent of a nonaqueous electrolyte solution at 80° C. for 72 hours,the adhesive strength (adhesive strength after immersion in electrolytesolvent) of the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1 to thealuminum plate may be preferably 0.5 N/25 mm or more, more preferably0.75 N/25 mm or more, particularly preferably 1.0 N/25 mm or more, andfurther preferably 2.0 N/25 mm or more as the lower limit. When thelower limit of the adhesive strength of the pressure sensitive adhesivesheet for batteries 1 after immersion in the electrolyte solventsatisfies the above, a trouble is less likely to occur that the pressuresensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1 delaminates from an adherend(in particular, a metal member) even after the pressure sensitiveadhesive sheet for batteries 1 is in contact with the electrolytesolution (immersed in the electrolyte solution). The upper limit of theabove adhesive strength after immersion in the electrolyte solvent isnot particularly limited, but may be preferably 40 N/25 mm or less ingeneral, more preferably 30 N/25 mm or less, particularly preferably 20N/25 mm or less, and further preferably 10 N/25 mm or less. The pressuresensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1 according to the presentembodiment has the pressure sensitive adhesive layer 13 formed using thepressure sensitive adhesive composition P which contains thepreviously-described (meth)acrylic ester polymer (A) and may preferablyfurther contain the metal chelate-based crosslinker (B) and particularlypreferably further contain the silane coupling agent (C), and excellentadhesive strength within the above range can thereby be achieved. Thesolvent of a nonaqueous electrolyte solution as used herein is aprepared liquid obtained by mixing ethylene carbonate and diethylcarbonate at a volume ratio of 1:1.

The adhesive strength after immersion in the electrolyte solvent may bepreferably 50% or more, more preferably 60% or more, particularlypreferably 70% or more, and further preferably 100% or more with respectto the adhesive strength before immersion in the electrolyte solvent.

The thickness of the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1(excluding the thickness of the release sheet 14) may be preferably 10to 250 μm, particularly preferably 15 to 110 μm, and further preferably20 to 45 μm. When the thickness of the pressure sensitive adhesive sheetfor batteries 1 falls within the above range, the pressure sensitiveadhesive sheet for batteries 1 can be more suitable in which both theadhesive strength and the heat resistance are excellent.

6. Production Method for Pressure Sensitive Adhesive Sheet for Batteries

The pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1 according to thepresent embodiment can be produced, for example, through preparing alaminate of the base material 11 and the hard coat layer 12, preparing alaminate of a coating film of the pressure sensitive adhesivecomposition P and the release sheet 14, attaching these laminates toeach other so that the hard coat layer 12 comes to contact with thecoating film of the pressure sensitive adhesive composition P, thenaging them, and forming the pressure sensitive adhesive layer 13 fromthe coating film of the pressure sensitive adhesive composition P. Fromthe viewpoint of enhancing the interfacial adhesion between the hardcoat layer 12 and the pressure sensitive adhesive layer 13, it may bepreferred to perform surface treatment such as corona treatment andplasma treatment for a surface to be attached of any one of these layersor surfaces to be attached of both of these layers and then attach theselayers to each other.

The laminate of the base material 11 and the hard coat layer 12 can beprepared, for example, in the following manner. First, one main surfaceof the base material 11 may be coated with a coating liquid thatcontains the composition for hard coat layer and may further contain asolvent if desired, and the coating liquid may be dried. The method ofcoating with the coating liquid may be performed using an ordinarymethod, such as a bar coating method, knife coating method, Meyer barmethod, roll coating method, blade coating method, die coating method,and gravure coating method. Drying can be performed, for example, byheating at 80° C. to 150° C. for about 30 seconds to 5 minutes.

Thereafter, the layer obtained by drying the above coating liquid may beirradiated with active energy rays to cure the layer to form the hardcoat layer 12. As the active energy rays, for example, electromagneticwave or charged particle radiation having an energy quantum can be usedand, specifically, ultraviolet rays, electron rays or the like can beused. In particular, ultraviolet rays may be preferred because of easymanagement. Irradiation with ultraviolet rays can be performed using ahigh pressure mercury lamp, xenon lamp or the like, and the irradiancelevel of ultraviolet rays may be preferably about 50 to 1,000 mW/cm² asthe illuminance. The light amount may be preferably 50 to 10,000 mJ/cm²,more preferably 80 to 5,000 mJ/cm², and particularly preferably 200 to2,000 mJ/cm². On the other hand, irradiation with electron rays can beperformed using an electron ray accelerator or the like, and theirradiance level of electron rays may be preferably about 10 to 1,000krad.

The laminate of the coating film of the pressure sensitive adhesivecomposition P and the release sheet 14 can be prepared, for example, inthe following manner. The release surface of the release sheet 14 may becoated with a coating liquid that contains the previously-describedpressure sensitive adhesive composition P and may further contain asolvent if desired, and heating treatment may be performed to form thecoating film.

Drying treatment when volatilizing a diluent solvent and the like of thecoating liquid can also serve as the above heating treatment. Whenperforming the heating treatment, the heating temperature may bepreferably 50° C. to 150° C. and particularly preferably 70° C. to 120°C. The heating time may be preferably 30 seconds to 10 minutes andparticularly preferably 50 seconds to 2 minutes.

After the hard coat layer 12 on the base material 11 and the coatingfilm of the pressure sensitive adhesive composition P on the releasesheet 14 are attached to each other, aging may be performed. This agingmay ordinarily be performed at a room temperature (e.g. 23° C., 50% RH)for about 1 to 2 weeks. This allows the coating film of the pressuresensitive adhesive composition P to become the pressure sensitiveadhesive layer 13, and the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet forbatteries 1 is thus produced.

Another production method for the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet forbatteries 1 according to the present embodiment may include forming thehard coat layer 12 and the pressure sensitive adhesive layer 13 in thisorder on the base material 11.

Lithium-Ion Battery

A lithium-ion battery according to an embodiment of the presentinvention may be configured such that two or more conductors are fixedin a state in which the two or more conductors are in contact with eachother in the battery using the previously-described pressure sensitiveadhesive sheet for batteries. It may be preferred that at least one ofthe two or more conductors be in a sheet-like shape while at leastanother one be in a line-like or a tape-like shape. A lithium-ionbattery according to a preferred embodiment will be described below.

As illustrated in FIG. 2 , the lithium-ion battery 2 according to thepresent embodiment may comprise a bottomed cylindrical exterior body 21of which the bottom part constitutes a negative electrode terminal 23, apositive electrode terminal 22 provided at an opening part of theexterior body 21, and an electrode body 24 provided inside the exteriorbody 21. An electrolyte solution may be enclosed in the lithium-ionbattery 2.

The electrode body 24 may comprise a positive electrode collector 241laminated with a positive electrode active material layer 241 a, anegative electrode collector 242 laminated with a negative electrodeactive material layer 242 a, and a separator 243 interposedtherebetween. Each of them is in a sheet-like (belt-like) shape. Thelaminate of the positive electrode collector 241 and the positiveelectrode active material layer 241 a may be referred to as a positiveelectrode while the laminate of the negative electrode collector 242 andthe negative electrode active material layer 242 a may be referred to asa negative electrode, and the positive electrode and the negativeelectrode may be collectively referred to as an electrode or electrodes.The positive electrode, the negative electrode, and the separator 243may be wound up together and then inserted inside the exterior body 21.

As illustrated in FIG. 3 , a line-like or tape-like electrode lead-outtab 244 may be attached to the positive electrode collector 241 usingthe previously-described pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries1, and the electrode lead-out tab 244 can thereby be electricallyconnected to the positive electrode collector 241. The electrodelead-out tab 244 may be electrically connected also to the abovepositive electrode terminal 22. The negative electrode collector 242 maybe electrically connected to the negative electrode terminal 23 via anelectrode lead-out tab which is not illustrated.

In general, the positive electrode collector 241 and the negativeelectrode collector 242 may be made of a material of metal such asaluminum while the electrode lead-out tab 244 may be made of a materialof metal such as aluminum and copper.

The electrolyte solution used in the lithium-ion battery 2 mayordinarily be a nonaqueous electrolyte solution. Preferred examples ofthe nonaqueous electrolyte solution include those in which a lithiumsalt as the electrolyte is dissolved in a mixed solvent of a cycliccarbonate and a lower chain carbonate. Examples of the lithium salt tobe used include fluorine-based complex salts, such as lithiumhexafluorophosphate (LiPF₆) and lithium borofluoride (LiBF₄), andLiN(SO₂Rf)₂.LiC(SO₂Rf)₃ (where Rf=CF₃, C₂F₅). Examples of the cycliccarbonate to be used include ethylene carbonate and propylene carbonate.Preferred examples of the lower chain carbonate include dimethylcarbonate, ethyl methyl carbonate, and diethyl carbonate.

The lithium-ion battery 2 according to the present embodiment can bemanufactured by an ordinary method except that the previously-describedpressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1 is used for fixationof the electrode lead-out tab 244.

In the lithium-ion battery 2 according to the present embodiment, theelectrode lead-out tab 244 is attached to the positive electrodecollector 241 using the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries1. Even in a state in which the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet forbatteries 1 is immersed in a nonaqueous electrolyte solution, cohesivefailure of the pressure sensitive adhesive layer 13 due to its swellingis suppressed and the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1exhibits excellent adhesive strength to the positive electrode collector241 and the electrode lead-out tab 244. Moreover, the pressure sensitiveadhesive which constitutes the pressure sensitive adhesive layer 13 isless likely to dissolve into the electrolyte solution and does notnegatively affect the battery performance.

Moreover, the above pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1may be provided with the hard coat layer 12 and the insulation cantherefore be ensured even if the base material 11 and/or the pressuresensitive adhesive layer 13 are carbonized.

As will be understood from the above, the lithium-ion battery 2according to the present embodiment, in which the performancedegradation, erroneous operation, thermal runaway, and short circuit dueto the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1 can besuppressed, is expected to have excellent temperature stability andsafety even under large-current conditions.

It should be appreciated that the embodiments heretofore explained aredescribed to facilitate understanding of the present invention and arenot described to limit the present invention. It is therefore intendedthat the elements disclosed in the above embodiments include all designchanges and equivalents to fall within the technical scope of thepresent invention.

For example, in the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1,the hard coat layer 12 and/or the release sheet 14 may be omitted. In anembodiment, the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries 1 may beprovided with one or more other layers between the base material 11 andthe hard coat layer 12.

EXAMPLES

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described furtherspecifically with reference to examples, etc., but the scope of thepresent invention is not limited to these examples, etc.

Example 1 1. Formation of Hard Coat Layer on Base Material

A coating liquid for hard coat layer was prepared through mixing 40 massparts of dipentaerythritol hexaacrylate (a material of which theglass-transition point is not observed after curing) as an active energyray-curable component, 5 mass parts of hydroxycyclohexyl phenyl ketoneas a photopolymerization initiator, and 60 mass parts (solid contentequivalent, here and hereinafter) of an organosilica sol (available fromNissan Chemical Industries, Ltd., trade name “MEK-ST,” average particlediameter of 30 nm) as an inorganic filler and diluting them with methylethyl ketone.

One surface of a polyimide film (available from DU PONT-TORAY CO., LTD.,trade name “Kapton 100H,” thickness of 25 μm, flame retardation levelV-0 according to the UL94 standard) as a base material was coated withthe above coating liquid using a knife coater and the coating liquid wasthen dried at 70° C. for 1 minute. Subsequently, the coating film wasirradiated with ultraviolet rays (illuminance of 230 mW/cm², lightamount of 510 mJ/cm²) to cure the coating film. A first laminate wasthus obtained in which a hard coat layer having a thickness of 2 μm wasformed on one surface of the base material.

A steel wool resistance test was conducted for the obtained firstlaminate such that the surface of the hard coat layer was rubbed at aload of 250 g/cm² using #0000 steel wool to reciprocate it ten timeswithin a length of 10 cm. As a result, it was confirmed that noscratches due to the steel wool were formed on the surface of the hardcoat layer.

2. Formation of Coating Film of Pressure Sensitive Adhesive Compositionon Release Sheet

A (meth)acrylic ester polymer (Tg: −50° C.) was prepared using asolution polymerization method to copolymerize 80 mass parts of2-ethylhexyl acrylate, 15 mass parts of isobornyl acrylate, and 5 massparts of acrylic acid. The molecular weight of this polymer was measuredusing gel permeation chromatography (GPC), which will be describedlater. The weight-average molecular weight (Mw) was 700,000.

Then, a coating liquid for pressure sensitive adhesive layer wasprepared through mixing 100 mass parts of the obtained (meth)acrylicester polymer, 1.55 mass parts of aluminum tris(acetylacetonate)(available from Soken Chemical & Engineering Co., Ltd., trade name“M-5A”) as a metal chelate-based crosslinker, and 0.5 mass parts of3-glycidoxypropylmethyldimethoxysilane (available from Shin-EtsuChemical Co., Ltd., trade name “KBM-403”) as a silane coupling agent anddiluting them with methyl ethyl ketone.

A release sheet (available from LINTEC Corporation, trade name“PET251130”) was prepared in which one surface of a polyethyleneterephthalate film was subjected to release treatment using asilicone-based release agent. The release-treated surface of the releasesheet was coated with the obtained coating liquid using a knife coaterand the coating liquid was then heat-treated at 120° C. for 1 minute. Asecond laminate was thus obtained in which the coating film of thepressure sensitive adhesive composition was laminated on therelease-treated surface of the release sheet.

3. Production of Pressure Sensitive Adhesive Sheet for Batteries

The surface of the first laminate, produced as the above, at the side ofthe hard coat layer and the surface of the second laminate, produced asthe above, at the side of the coating film of the pressure sensitiveadhesive composition were attached to each other and they were then agedat 23° C. and 50% RH for 7 days. A pressure sensitive adhesive sheet forbatteries was thus obtained in which the coating film of the pressuresensitive adhesive composition became the pressure sensitive adhesivelayer. The thickness of the pressure sensitive adhesive layer was 7 μm.The thickness of the pressure sensitive adhesive layer was calculatedthrough obtaining the total thickness of the pressure sensitive adhesivesheet for batteries and subtracting the thicknesses of the firstlaminate and the above release sheet from the total thickness.

Example 2

A (meth)acrylic ester polymer (Tg: −44° C.) was prepared using asolution polymerization method to copolymerize 75 mass parts of2-ethylhexyl acrylate, 20 mass parts of isobornyl acrylate, and 5 massparts of acrylic acid. The molecular weight of this polymer was measuredusing gel permeation chromatography (GPC), which will be describedlater. The weight-average molecular weight (Mw) was 700,000. A pressuresensitive adhesive sheet for batteries was produced in the same manneras in Example 1 except that the (meth)acrylic ester polymer obtained asthe above was used.

Example 3

A (meth)acrylic ester polymer (Tg: −38° C.) was prepared using asolution polymerization method to copolymerize 70 mass parts of2-ethylhexyl acrylate, 25 mass parts of isobornyl acrylate, and 5 massparts of acrylic acid. The molecular weight of this polymer was measuredusing gel permeation chromatography (GPC), which will be describedlater. The weight-average molecular weight (Mw) was 700,000. A pressuresensitive adhesive sheet for batteries was produced in the same manneras in Example 1 except that the (meth)acrylic ester polymer obtained asthe above was used.

Example 4

A (meth)acrylic ester polymer (Tg: −58° C.) was prepared using asolution polymerization method to copolymerize 87.5 mass parts of2-ethylhexyl acrylate, 7.5 mass parts of isobornyl acrylate, and 5 massparts of acrylic acid. The molecular weight of this polymer was measuredusing gel permeation chromatography (GPC), which will be describedlater. The weight-average molecular weight (Mw) was 700,000. A pressuresensitive adhesive sheet for batteries was produced in the same manneras in Example 1 except that the (meth)acrylic ester polymer obtained asthe above was used.

Example 5

A (meth)acrylic ester polymer (Tg: −49° C.) was prepared using asolution polymerization method to copolymerize 79 mass parts of2-ethylhexyl acrylate, 20 mass parts of isobornyl acrylate, and 1 masspart of acrylic acid. The molecular weight of this polymer was measuredusing gel permeation chromatography (GPC), which will be describedlater. The weight-average molecular weight (Mw) was 700,000. A pressuresensitive adhesive sheet for batteries was produced in the same manneras in Example 1 except that the (meth)acrylic ester polymer obtained asthe above was used.

Example 6

A (meth)acrylic ester polymer (Tg: −55° C.) was prepared using asolution polymerization method to copolymerize 80 mass parts of2-ethylhexyl acrylate, 15 mass parts of cyclohexyl acrylate, and 5 massparts of acrylic acid. The molecular weight of this polymer was measuredusing gel permeation chromatography (GPC), which will be describedlater. The weight-average molecular weight (Mw) was 700,000. A pressuresensitive adhesive sheet for batteries was produced in the same manneras in Example 1 except that the (meth)acrylic ester polymer obtained asthe above was used.

Example 7

A (meth)acrylic ester polymer (Tg: −28° C.) was prepared using asolution polymerization method to copolymerize 80 mass parts of2-ethylhexyl acrylate, 15 mass parts of n-dodecyl acrylate, and 5 massparts of acrylic acid. The molecular weight of this polymer was measuredusing gel permeation chromatography (GPC), which will be describedlater. The weight-average molecular weight (Mw) was 700,000. A pressuresensitive adhesive sheet for batteries was produced in the same manneras in Example 1 except that the (meth)acrylic ester polymer obtained asthe above was used.

Example 8

A (meth)acrylic ester polymer (Tg: −65° C.) was prepared using asolution polymerization method to copolymerize 95 mass parts of2-ethylhexyl acrylate and 5 mass parts of acrylic acid. The molecularweight of this polymer was measured using gel permeation chromatography(GPC), which will be described later. The weight-average molecularweight (Mw) was 700,000. A pressure sensitive adhesive sheet forbatteries was produced in the same manner as in Example 1 except thatthe (meth)acrylic ester polymer obtained as the above was used.

Comparative Example 1

A (meth)acrylic ester polymer (Tg: −38° C.) was prepared using asolution polymerization method to copolymerize 60 mass parts of2-ethylhexyl acrylate, 20 mass parts of methyl methacrylate, and 20 massparts of 2-hydroxyethyl acrylate. The molecular weight of this polymerwas measured using gel permeation chromatography (GPC), which will bedescribed later. The weight-average molecular weight (Mw) was 500,000.

Then, a coating liquid for pressure sensitive adhesive layer wasprepared through mixing 100 mass parts of the obtained (meth)acrylicester polymer, 0.93 mass parts of aluminum tris(acetylacetonate)(available from Soken Chemical & Engineering Co., Ltd., trade name“M-5A”) as a metal chelate-based crosslinker, and 0.5 mass parts of3-glycidoxypropylmethyldimethoxysilane (available from Shin-EtsuChemical Co., Ltd., trade name “KBM-403”) as a silane coupling agent anddiluting them with methyl ethyl ketone. A pressure sensitive adhesivesheet for batteries was produced in the same manner as in Example 1except that the coating liquid for pressure sensitive adhesive layerobtained as the above was used.

Comparative Example 2

A (meth)acrylic ester polymer (Tg: −40° C.) was prepared using asolution polymerization method to copolymerize 76.8 mass parts ofn-butyl acrylate, 19.2 mass parts of methyl acrylate, and 4 mass partsof acrylic acid. The molecular weight of this polymer was measured usinggel permeation chromatography (GPC), which will be described later. Theweight-average molecular weight (Mw) was 1,000,000.

Then, a coating liquid for pressure sensitive adhesive layer wasprepared through mixing 100 mass parts of the obtained (meth)acrylicester polymer, 0.31 mass parts of aluminum tris(acetylacetonate)(available from Soken Chemical & Engineering Co., Ltd., trade name“M-5A”) as a metal chelate-based crosslinker, 2.35 mass parts oftrimethylolpropane-modified tolylene diisocyanate (available fromTOYOCHEM CO., LTD., trade name “BHS8515”) as an isocyanate-basedcrosslinker, and 0.5 mass parts of3-glycidoxypropylmethyldimethoxysilane (available from Shin-EtsuChemical Co., Ltd., trade name “KBM-403”) as a silane coupling agent anddiluting them with methyl ethyl ketone. A pressure sensitive adhesivesheet for batteries was produced in the same manner as in Example 1except that the coating liquid for pressure sensitive adhesive layerobtained as the above was used.

Comparative Example 3

A (meth)acrylic ester polymer (Tg: −50° C.) was prepared using asolution polymerization method to copolymerize 96 mass parts of n-butylacrylate and 4 mass parts of acrylic acid. The molecular weight of thispolymer was measured using gel permeation chromatography (GPC), whichwill be described later. The weight-average molecular weight (Mw) was1,000,000.

Then, a coating liquid for pressure sensitive adhesive layer wasprepared through mixing 100 mass parts of the obtained (meth)acrylicester polymer, 0.93 mass parts of aluminum tris(acetylacetonate)(available from Soken Chemical & Engineering Co., Ltd., trade name“M-5A”) as a metal chelate-based crosslinker, and 0.5 mass parts of3-glycidoxypropylmethyldimethoxysilane (available from Shin-EtsuChemical Co., Ltd., trade name “KBM-403”) as a silane coupling agent anddiluting them with methyl ethyl ketone. A pressure sensitive adhesivesheet for batteries was produced in the same manner as in Example 1except that the coating liquid for pressure sensitive adhesive layerobtained as the above was used.

Here, the previously-described weight-average molecular weight (Mw)refers to a weight-average molecular weight that is measured as astandard polystyrene equivalent value under the following conditionusing gel permeation chromatography (GPC) (GPC measurement).

Measurement Condition

-   -   GPC measurement apparatus: HLC-8020 available from Tosoh        Corporation    -   GPC columns (passing in the order below): available from Tosoh        Corporation        -   TSK guard column HXL-H        -   TSK gel GMHXL (×2)        -   TSK gel G2000HXL    -   Solvent for measurement: tetrahydrofuran    -   Measurement temperature: 40° C.

<Exemplary Test 1> (Measurement of Gel Fraction by Immersion inElectrolyte Solvent)

In the production of the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteriesof each of Examples and Comparative Examples, the surface of the secondlaminate at the side of the coating film of the pressure sensitiveadhesive composition was attached to the release-treated surface ofanother release sheet (available from LINTEC Corporation, trade name“PET251130”) in which one surface of a polyethylene terephthalate filmwas subjected to release treatment using a silicone-based release agent.Thereafter, aging at 23° C. and 50% RH for 7 days was performed and asheet for measurement was thus obtained comprising the pressuresensitive adhesive layer alone, of which both surfaces were protected bythe release sheets.

The obtained sheet for measurement was cut into a size of 80 mm×80 mmand the release sheets protecting both surfaces of the pressuresensitive adhesive layer were removed. The pressure sensitive adhesivelayer was wrapped with a polyester mesh (mesh size of 200) and the totalmass was weighed using a precision balance. The mass of the pressuresensitive adhesive alone was calculated by subtracting the mass of theabove mesh alone from the total mass. The calculated mass is representedby M1. Then, the pressure sensitive adhesive wrapped with the abovepolyester mesh was immersed in a prepared liquid as the electrolytesolvent at 80° C. for 72 hours. The prepared liquid was obtained bymixing ethylene carbonate and diethyl carbonate at a volume ratio of1:1. Thereafter, the pressure sensitive adhesive layer was taken out andonce immersed in ethanol to dissolve and remove the attached electrolytesolvent, air-dried for 24 hours under an environment of a temperature of23° C. and a relative humidity of 50%, and further dried in an oven at80° C. for 12 hours. After drying, the mass was weighed using aprecision balance and the mass of the pressure sensitive adhesive alonewas calculated by subtracting the mass of the above mesh alone. Thecalculated mass is represented by M2. The gel fraction (%) wascalculated from the calculation formula of (M2/M1)×100. Results arelisted in Table 1.

<Exemplary Test 2> (Measurement of Adhesive Strength before Immersion inElectrolyte Solvent)

The adhesive strength of the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet forbatteries in this exemplary test was measured in accordance with JISZ0237: 2009 except the following operation.

The pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries obtained in each ofExamples and Comparative Examples was cut into a width of 25 mm and alength of 250 mm and the release sheet was then removed to obtain a testpiece. The exposed pressure sensitive adhesive layer of the test piecewas attached to an aluminum plate as an adherend using a rubber rollerof 2 kg under an environment of 23° C. and 50% RH. Immediatelythereafter, the test piece was peeled off from the above aluminum plateat a peel angle of 180° and a peel speed of 300 ram/min using auniversal tensile tester (available from ORIENTEC Co., LTD., trade name“TENSILON UTM-4-100”) and the adhesive strength (N/25 mm) was thusmeasured. The measured value was employed as the adhesive strengthbefore immersion in the electrolyte solvent. Results are listed in Table1.

<Exemplary Test 3> (Measurement of Adhesive Strength after Immersion inElectrolyte Solvent)

The adhesive strength of the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet forbatteries in this exemplary test was measured in accordance with JISZ0237: 2009 except the following operation.

The pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries obtained in each ofExamples and Comparative Examples was cut into a width of 25 mm and alength of 250 mm and the release sheet was then removed to obtain a testpiece. The exposed pressure sensitive adhesive layer of the test piecewas attached to an aluminum plate as an adherend using a rubber rollerof 2 kg under an environment of 23° C. and 50% RH and they were thenleft untouched under the same environment for 20 minutes. Thereafter, ina state in which the test piece was attached to the aluminum plate, theywere immersed in a prepared liquid as the electrolyte solvent at 80° C.for 72 hours. The prepared liquid was obtained by mixing ethylenecarbonate and diethyl carbonate at a volume ratio of 1:1. Immediatelyafter the test piece and the aluminum plate were taken out from theprepared liquid, the adhesive strength (N/25 mm) was measured in thesame manner as the above. The measured value was employed as theadhesive strength after immersion in the electrolyte solvent. Resultsare listed in Table 1.

During the above test, the cohesive failure of the pressure sensitiveadhesive layers did not occur in the pressure sensitive adhesive sheetsfor batteries of Examples, but the cohesive failure of the pressuresensitive adhesive layers did occur in the pressure sensitive adhesivesheets for batteries of Comparative Examples.

<Exemplary Test 4> (Evaluation of Electrolyte Solution Resistance)

The release sheet was removed from the pressure sensitive adhesive sheetfor batteries obtained in each of Examples and Comparative Examples, theexposed pressure sensitive adhesive layer was attached to an aluminumplate (thickness: 1 mm), and this was used as a test piece. The obtainedtest piece was enclosed in an aluminum laminated bag together with aprepared liquid as an electrolyte solution obtained through mixingethylene carbonate and diethyl carbonate at a volume ratio of 1:1 tomake a mixture liquid and dissolving lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF₆)in the mixture liquid at a concentration of 1 mol/L, and they wereheated under an environment of 80° C. for 3 days. Thereafter, thepressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries was peeled off from thealuminum plate using tweezers. Confirmation was made for the state ofthe pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries when immersed in theelectrolyte solution, the adhesive strength when peeling off thepressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries, and the state whenpeeling off the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries and theelectrolyte solution resistance was evaluated on the basis of thedetermination criteria as below. Evaluation of “3” or higher isacceptable. Results are listed in Table 1.

5 . . . Delamination occurred at the interface between the pressuresensitive adhesive and the adherend (high adhesive strength).

4 . . . Delamination occurred at the interface between the pressuresensitive adhesive and the adherend (middle adhesive strength).

3 . . . Delamination occurred at the interface between the pressuresensitive adhesive and the adherend (low adhesive strength).

2 . . . Cohesive failure of the pressure sensitive adhesive occurred dueto its swelling.

1 . . . Delamination occurred during immersion in the electrolytesolution.

TABLE 1 Adhesive Adhesive Gel strength strength fraction (N/25 mm) (N/25mm) (%) after before after Evaluation of immersion in immersion inimmersion in electrolyte electrolyte electrolyte electrolyte solutionsolvent solvent solvent resistance Example 1 94.2 2.2 2.5 5 Example 295.6 2.3 2.5 5 Example 3 93.2 2.7 2.8 4 Example 4 92.3 1.9 1.6 3 Example5 91.5 1.2 3.4 3 Example 6 92.5 2.3 1.8 4 Example 7 93.6 1.5 1.7 3Example 8 92.7 1.6 1.5 3 Comparative 53.5 2.2 1.0 1 Example 1Comparative 72.1 3.0 1.5 1 Example 2 Comparative 84.1 2.5 2.3 2 Example3

As apparent from Table 1, the pressure sensitive adhesive sheets forbatteries of Examples do not cause cohesive failure of the pressuresensitive adhesive layers and exhibit high adhesive strength (70% ormore of adhesive strength before immersion in electrolyte solvent) evenwhen immersed in the electrolyte solvent and electrolyte solution. Ithas also been found that the pressure sensitive adhesives of thepressure sensitive adhesive sheets for batteries of Examples exhibit ahigh gel fraction even after immersion in the electrolyte solvent andare less likely to dissolve into the electrolyte solvent.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The pressure sensitive adhesive composition and the pressure sensitiveadhesive sheet for batteries according to the present invention aresuitable for attaching an electrode lead-out tab to an electrode(current collector) inside a lithium-ion battery.

DESCRIPTION OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

-   1 . . . Pressure sensitive adhesive sheet for batteries    -   11 . . . Base material    -   12 . . . Hard coat layer    -   13 . . . Pressure sensitive adhesive layer    -   14 . . . Release sheet-   2 . . . Lithium-ion battery    -   21 . . . Exterior body    -   22 . . . Positive electrode terminal    -   ≤. . . Negative electrode terminal    -   24 . . . Electrode body        -   241 . . . Positive electrode collector        -   241 a . . . Positive electrode active material layer        -   242 . . . Negative electrode collector        -   242 a .. . Negative electrode active material layer        -   243 . . . Separator        -   244 . . . Electrode lead-out tab

The invention claimed is:
 1. A battery comprising a pressure sensitiveadhesive sheet and an electrolyte solution, wherein: the pressuresensitive adhesive sheet is provided at a site in the battery in whichthere is a possibility of contact with the electrolyte solution; thepressure sensitive adhesive sheet comprises a base material and apressure sensitive adhesive layer laminated at one side of the basematerial; and the pressure sensitive adhesive layer is formed of apressure sensitive adhesive composition comprising: (I) a (meth)acrylicester polymer having a main chain of (meth)acrylic alkyl ester monomerunits having a carbon number of an alkyl group of 6 or more and 20 orless containing: (Ia) 2-ethylhexyl (meth)acrylates, (Ib) (meth)acrylicalkyl ester monomer units having a carbon number of an alkyl group of 10or more and 20 or less, and (Ic) carboxy group-containing monomer units,and (II) a silane coupling agent in an amount of 0.01 to 5.0 mass partsto 100 mass parts of the (meth)acrylic ester polymer.
 2. The battery asrecited in claim 1, wherein the (meth)acrylic alkyl ester monomer unitshaving a carbon number of an alkyl group of 6 or more and 20 or lesscontain 2-ethylhexyl (meth)acrylates and (meth)acrylic alkyl estermonomer units having a carbon number of an alkyl group of 10 or more and12 or less.
 3. The battery as recited in claim 1, wherein a mass ratiobetween 2-ethylhexyl (meth)acrylates and (meth)acrylic alkyl estermonomer units having a carbon number of an alkyl group of 10 or more and20 or less in the (meth)acrylic ester polymer is 70:25 to 87.5:7.5. 4.The battery as recited in claim 1, wherein the (meth)acrylic alkyl estermonomer units having a carbon number of an alkyl group of 10 or more and20 or less is isobornyl (meth)acrylate or n-dodecyl (meth)acrylate. 5.The battery as recited in claim 1, wherein the pressure sensitiveadhesive composition comprises a crosslinker in an amount of 0.1 to 5.0mass parts per 100 mass parts of the (meth)acrylic ester polymer.
 6. Thebattery as recited in claim 1, wherein the pressure sensitive adhesivelayer has a gel fraction of 70% or more and 100% or less measured byimmersing the pressure sensitive adhesive layer in a mixed solvent ofethylene carbonate and diethyl carbonate at a volume ratio of 1:1 at 80°C. for 72 hours.
 7. The battery as recited in claim 1, wherein the(meth)acrylic ester polymer has a glass-transition temperature of lowerthan 0° C.
 8. The battery as recited in claim 1, wherein the basematerial is a film formed of a polymer having a nitrogen-containing ringstructure at a main chain.
 9. The battery as recited in claim 1, whereina surface of the base material at the pressure sensitive adhesive layerside is formed with a hard coat layer.
 10. The battery as recited inclaim 9, wherein a surface of the hard coat layer is scratch free afterten reciprocated rubbings of a 10 cm length portion of the surface at aload of 250 g/cm² using #0000 steel wool.
 11. The battery as recited inclaim 1, wherein two or more conductors are fixed in a state in whichthe two or more conductors are in contact with each other inside thebattery using the pressure sensitive adhesive sheet.
 12. The battery asrecited in claim 1, wherein the battery is a lithium-ion battery.
 13. Amethod of manufacturing a battery, comprising: preparing a pressuresensitive adhesive sheet comprising a base material and a pressuresensitive adhesive layer laminated at one side of the base material; andfixing two or more conductors in a state in which the two or moreconductors are in contact with each other in the battery using thepressure sensitive adhesive sheet, wherein the pressure sensitiveadhesive layer is formed of a pressure sensitive adhesive compositioncomprising: (I) a (meth)acrylic ester polymer having a main chain of(meth)acrylic alkyl ester monomer units having a carbon number of analkyl group of 6 or more and 20 or less containing: (Ia) 2-ethylhexyl(meth)acrylates, (Ib) (meth)acrylic alkyl ester monomer units having acarbon number of an alkyl group of 10 or more and 20 or less, and (Ic)carboxy group-containing monomer units, and (II) a silane coupling agentin an amount of 0.01 to 5.0 mass parts to 100 mass parts of the(meth)acrylic ester polymer.